Queens Library Volunteer Spotlight: Nadine McGrath

It’s National Volunteer Week 2016, and we want to celebrate the important role of volunteers at Queens Library!

All this week, we will share stories of our volunteers on our blog. Thank you to them, and to every Queens Library volunteer, for their service!

Nadine McGrath has worked in the healthcare industry for over 11 years. She’s met people from several different backgrounds and cultures, which, she says, has allowed her to be “present, passionate, and professional.” She also feels that it's prepared her for her volunteer work at Queens Library.

“Nadine has graciously assumed a variety of responsibilities here, including computer instructor, literacy tutor, and administrative support volunteer,” says Lori Rodriguez, Manager of Rochdale ALC. “She is excellent with the adult learners and is always looking for opportunities to learn new things herself. Every time she volunteers at Rochdale, she has a bright smile and a generous word for students and staff alike.”

Volunteering at Rochdale ALC has given Nadine the opportunity to, in her words, "breathe on adults"—to express and give her experience to others, and to learn from them as well. “Adults who are willing to learn are like sponges,” Nadine says. “They pull the best from me and also teach me while I teach them. It gives me great personal satisfaction to know that I can impact someone’s life by making a difference.”

Comments

Submitted by PatFit266 on 4-15-2016

I met Nadine for the first time during a recent tutor seminar. Reading Nadine's Spotlight story reminds me of the very things that struck me about her. She had a willing smile, a kind and guiding word for me exactly when I needed it, and I can't imagine how many talents she is able to share with her students. The Library needs about 1,000 more Nadines.

I met Nadine for the first time during a recent tutor seminar. Reading Nadine's Spotlight story reminds me of the very things that struck me about her. She had a willing smile, a kind and guiding word for me exactly when I needed it, and I can't imagine how many talents she is able to share with her students. The Library needs about 1,000 more Nadines.